The High Achievers Scholarship for 2017 will only be awarded to students that are pursuing careers in fields named in the Depart of Higher Education’s ‘Skill Shortage List’.

The department said that it would grant scholarships for any country, not including the 35 members states of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. The scholarship will cover expenses for a bachelor’s degree in any SAARC country, or a degree that is equivalent or less costly. 

The Department’s most recent ‘Skill Shortage List’ includes 311 fields. Students that are eligible for the scholarship must begin their academic semester within 18 months of being notified of having received it. 

Students that are unable to do so, must provide an adequate reason before the 18-month period. 

To be eligible for scholarships, students must have acquired five ‘A’ grades in their O’level examinations – including the mandatory subjects; Islam and Dhivehi.